If steak rates as a favorite entree for your events, these specialty restaurants take the coveted category to a whole new level. Also known for their exceptional service, these Michigan eateries can easily customize their menus and venues to meet your needs.
The Chop House of Grand Rapids
At The Chop House of Grand Rapids it’s not just the food, but also the staff that keeps people coming back for more, according to General Manager Harry Johnson.
“People always tell us the staff is so friendly and happy. They come back for our service and staff,” he says.
The steak, prime beef in the top 2 percent of all beef in America, speaks for itself. Nonmeat eaters can enjoy fish, which is flown in daily from Boston.
“We start with a wonderful product served simply and our slogan is: prepare to be pampered. We hang up your jacket and pull out your chair,” says Johnson. With a tagline like that, visitors know what’s in store when they walk in the door.
Two private dining rooms let staff control the temperature, lighting and music while offering state-of-the-art electronics that are conducive to meetings and presentations.
Tonya Palazzolo, executive assistant for Bradford White Water Heaters in Middleville, has chosen The Chop House for sales meetings between customers and top and mid-level management because she likes the high-quality food and service. “Harry and his staff always take care of us,” she says. “The steaks are the finest meats and our customers and management are always satisfied.”
Special events, such as weddings, rehearsal dinners, anniversary and birthday celebrations can benefit from a private room with superior food and service. “They can count on us,” says Johnson. “We consistently exceed our guest expectations.”
The Chop House of Ann Arbor
At The Chop House of Ann Arbor, General Manager Sue Burke says it’s the food, the service and the ambiance that sets them apart. Its USDA prime beef gives steak lovers something to savor and the restaurant can tailor the menu to meet anyone’s needs.
Whether for a board meeting, wedding or any other special event, customization is key. “We put a little spin on a bridal shower. Instead of the traditional setup, one client requested wine and food pairings,” says Burke. “We’re known for our consistency. We have great service, great food and great wine and they knew they wouldn’t have to do a thing.”
The fact that they deliver keeps people coming back for more. Open strictly for dinner, the staff has access to the rooms seven days a week for setup. The Coach Lloyd Carr Room that can accommodate up to 40 people is filled with University of Michigan memorabilia, making it a great place for team-building events.
The La Dolce Vita Room holds up to 25 comfortably while the Wine Cellar Room and the Chef’s Table fit smaller groups.
The restaurant is also known for going the extra mile like the time Burke found a harpist for a client with just a few hours to spare. “If it’s within the realm of us being able to do it, we’ll get it done,” she says.
Just ask Jim Stapleton, a longtime Detroit area businessman who frequents the establishment. “I utilize The Chop House for private dinners, fundraisers and cocktail events,” he says. “The customer service is absolutely outstanding and their private spaces include a Wine Cellar that’s beautifully laid out and the Lloyd Carr Room, which is really tastefully done. Their staff is extraordinarily attentive, the wine is highend and the food is great. It’s a great spot.”
The London Chop House
Newly reopened in the same location following a 20-year hiatus, The London Chop House in Detroit (LCH) boasts a 120-seat dining room with live entertainment, a 20-seat private room, a 12-seat private boardroom, a 75-seat private dining space, and more.
Each private event at the legendary venue features a unique menu. “We can service the needs of any engagement from a board meeting to a wedding party,” says General Manager Bjorn Lagerfeldt.
The original award-winning spot was known for its superb service, food and celebrity clientele. “It is our intention to revive that spirit and atmosphere to create an exciting dining experience for our guests,” says Lagerfeldt. “Our guests will enjoy amenities from valet service to the Cellar Collection Wine List featuring sought-after wines from all over the world, a Cigar Bar and a Billiards Room.
“We wish to impress all of our guests with a classic traditional feel while accommodating the modern diner,” says Lagerfeldt. “We aim to provide Detroit with elevated service standards and cuisine to match.”
Michelle Christie-Hart, manager of fleet marketing events at the Ford Motor Co., favors the location for customer, dealer and personal dinners. She appreciates the staff, the service, the food quality and the history of the restaurant. “Most of our meetings are held in Dearborn, but we gladly travel to Detroit for LCH,” she says.
“The staff is extremely accommodating and the food is always amazing. No matter the size of the group, the food is served perfectly,” adds Christie-Hart. “Having the option of holding group dinners in the restaurant or in the private dining room is an added benefit.”
She enjoys sharing Detroit with out-oftowners. “We have taken groups to many restaurants in the city and LCH is the number one request for a do-over. Bjorn Lagerfeldt is an absolute gem and one of the many reasons I personally love LCH.”
